KLT Customs Command cracks down on expired imports

The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command, Deputy Comptroller BL Adigun, has disclosed that the process of handing over a 1×20-foot container, GESU3900612, containing 440 bags of 25kg expired raw material known as Triple Pressed Stearic Acid from Indonesia, with Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦36,556,539.00k only, to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is currently underway.

Deputy Comptroller BL Adigun noted that the container was intercepted during the routine cargo examination, and its contents were found to violate import regulations while posing potential risks to public health.

The Controller made this known in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the command, CSC VU Ogagbor, saying the command is intensifying enforcement actions against expired and falsely declared goods while achieving remarkable revenue growth in 2025.

The Acting CAC described the handover as a clear demonstration of the Command’s sustained collaboration with sister agencies to prevent the importation of expired and substandard products.

He revealed that in a related enforcement activity, a 1×40-foot container, MSKU 4798018, was intercepted at Joliz Terminal. The container was discovered to contain items that were falsely declared as zipped luggage but found to contain empty suit cases, with Duty Paid Value of Five Million, Ten Thousand Naira (₦5,010,000.00k) only.

He explained that this seizure underscores the command’s zero-tolerance approach to false declaration, smuggling, and other trade infractions.

He stated that the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command remains committed to upholding its mandate to facilitate legitimate trade, prevent smuggling, enforce Customs laws, and protect national revenue. He emphasized that the Command continues to focus on ensuring compliance, safeguarding public health, and promoting efficient trade operations at the terminals through sustained enforcement and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

On revenue, he stated that the Command recorded a total revenue of One Hundred and Forty-Seven Billion, Two Hundred and Sixteen Million, One Hundred and Forty-Nine Thousand, Thirty-Three Naira and Eighty-One Kobo (₦147,216,149,033.81k) only in 2025, surpassing its target of *One Hundred and Nine Billion, Four Hundred and Forty-Two Million, Eight Hundred and Ninety-Two Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eighty-Nine Naira and Eighty-Six Kobo (₦109,442,892,919.86k) only. This represents a significant increase over One Hundred and Seven Billion, One Hundred and Eighty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Seventy-Four Thousand, Nine Hundred and Four Naira (₦107,182,674,904.00k) only recorded in 2024. The difference of Forty Billion, Thirty-Three Million, Four Hundred and Seventy-Four Thousand, One Hundred and Twenty-Nine Naira and Eighty-One Kobo (₦40,033,474,129.81k) only, reflecting a 35 percent growth, demonstrates the effectiveness of the Command’s improved enforcement strategies, operational efficiency, and increased compliance among stakeholders.

He expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and his Management Team for their leadership, guidance, and for creating an enabling environment that empowers the Command to deliver effectively on its mandate.

He also commended the officers and men of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command for their dedication, professionalism, and integrity in combating smuggling and other unlawful trade activities. He urged them to sustain this level of commitment, consistently adhere to the rules of engagement, and maintain high standards of conduct in the execution of their statutory duties.

Furthermore, he acknowledged the support of compliant stakeholders and partner agencies, stating that their collaboration has been instrumental to the progress and achievements of the Command. He emphasized that such cooperation remains vital to sustaining operational efficiency, enforcing compliance, and safeguarding national revenue.

He assured stakeholders and the general public that the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command will continue to block revenue leakages, combat illegal importation, and support national health and security objectives throughout the year.